Sedona: Artists, Spirituality, and Majestic Red Rock Landscapes

Sedona is a charming, quaint artists' town where mostly wealthy Americans have settled in recent years. This town must be seen; the scenery around Sedona is stunning. Red-brown rock formations and table mountains form the backdrop of this lovely town. It's a place full of magic, spirituality, and red rocks—wherever you look!

Sedona is located near Oak Creek Canyon, about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) south of Flagstaff. It is located in a beautiful, breathtaking setting, surrounded by the red rocks.

Since the 1980s, special vortex currents have been felt in Sedona, which by coming together generate electromagnetic energy. Some say it is a portal for earthly and otherworldly spirits and that through the Vortex you feel certain sensations on your skin or in your body. This is said to strengthen the soul. In short, the area is very spiritual.

The finding led to an influx of new-age enthusiasts and tourists into Sedona. They were drawn not just by the scenic allure but primarily by the intense energy of the area. Regardless of personal beliefs, the most enchanting aspect of Sedona continues to be its mystical environment.

Hiking to Cathedral Rock

There are plenty of wonderful hikes you can do in Sedona. However, temperatures can get very high in the summer, so not everyone is eager to go on long hikes.



One sight you must have seen is the hike to Cathedral Rock. Cathedral Rock is without a doubt the most photographed sight in Sedona. This sandstone formation is located in Coconino National Forest, about 2.5 km (1.6 miles) west of Arizona Route 179, and 6.4 km (4 miles) south of the "Y-junction" of 179 and 89A in Sedona. The summit reaches an elevation of 1,514 m (4976 ft).

Visit the town Sedona

The town of Sedona is so cozy that you could easily spend hours wandering around. Sedona has a magnetic effect on artsy people. Spirituality is also very important to many Sedona residents. Not surprisingly, there is a relaxed vibe in Sedona.



The atmospheric downtown area consists of numerous art galleries and you can participate in yoga classes, often at spectacular locations such as Angel Valley. Several massage parlors can be found where you can immerse yourself in pampering comfort.

Not so spiritually inclined? There are other creative stores to be found, as well as numerous restaurants etc; The smell of waffles, cakes and ice creams is sure to meet you. Mouth-watering.

Tlaquepaque Village

This mini "village" is typically Italian and something you would not expect in this city. You must have strolled through these small streets. Here you will also find plenty of super cozy (cheap) restaurants and lots of stores. Especially for art -of all kinds- this is the place to be. 


Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Arizona. The canyon gets narrower and narrower as you hike further, and the trail gets harder and harder to walk. You are surrounded by the red rocks.



You have to cross the river in several places via stacked rocks. The hike is a 10 km (6.2 miles) round trip. So you have to take some time for this.

Slide Rock State Park


Want to cool off in Sedona? Then Slide Rock State Park is a must. Erosion has created a natural slide on the park's flat rocks.

Expect a waterfall where you can swim and slide between the smooth rocks in the riverbed. Slide Rock Park is the perfect place to escape the heat of the desert.

Many people have discovered this attractive, cooling water playground, especially children love it. To protect this unique natural spectacle, the Arizona government has made it a State Park. You don't have to worry about catching an infection in the water, as the water quality is tested there daily. Just be careful not to slip on the slippery rocks.

Besides swimming and sliding, there are many other outdoor activities available at Slide Rock. You can hike, picnic, observe wildlife and birds, fish, sunbathe and take beautiful pictures in the beautiful nature of the Coconino National Forest. There is also a Slide Rock Market where you can buy snacks and drinks.

Red Rock State Park

There are several State Parks around Sedona, one of which is Red Rock State Park. There are beautiful hikes of varying lengths in this area. And if you leave early, you'll have the place pretty much to yourself and can enjoy the birds, squirrels and other wildlife and, of course, the beautiful red rocks all around.



It's fairly shady and it feels like an oasis in the desert.

Broken Arrow Trail

Are you short on time but still want a nice hike in the Sedona area? Then hike the Broken Arrow Trail. This trek is 4.3 km (2.7 miles) long and is passable for an average hiker. The trail takes you past unique rock formations with telling names as Battlement Mesa and Devils Dining Room Sinkhole.

The Bell Rock Trail

Another beautiful and easy trail is The Bell Rock Trial of about 3 km (1.8 miles). The panoramic views are very photogenic.

Best time to visit